Latest news with #ACMilanWomen
Arab News
09-07-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Winners announced for ‘She's Next in Football' program
Visa, a global leader in digital payments, has announced the winners of the inaugural 'She's Next in Football' program in Saudi Arabia, held in partnership with Saudi Awwal Bank and AC Milan Women. The initiative spotlights the Kingdom's most promising women footballers and marks a major step in advancing female talent in sports through mentorship, professional training, and international exposure. Fatima Alsenan was named the overall winner and will travel to Milan for a two-week 'Training with the PRO' experience at the PUMA House of Football, training alongside AC Milan Women's professional players and coaches. Zainab Alhomidi secured the runner-up position and will enjoy an exclusive VIP visit to AC Milan's training grounds. Finalists were evaluated based on their football skills, leadership potential, and dedication to the game. The judging panel included representatives from Visa, SAB, and Saudi football icon Farah Jefry, who also serves as the program's ambassador. 'Programs like She's Next in Football show us what's possible when ambition, talent, and opportunity come together. What sets these young women apart isn't just what they do. It's how they think with resilience, focus, and a willingness to grow. That mindset is exactly what She's Next is all about. Through partnerships with SAB and AC Milan Women, we're not just creating opportunities, but building ecosystems that empower women to lead, inspire, and shape their communities. It's a model that works across sectors, and one we're proud to champion as part of Saudi Arabia's inclusive growth journey,' said Ali Bailoun, Visa's regional general manager for Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Oman. Lama Ghazzaoui, chief financial officer at SAB, said: 'When women are given meaningful access to opportunity they rise, not only as athletes but as changemakers.' This partnership is about more than football, it is about creating a space for growth, confidence and ambition to take root. As the chair of BALANCE, SAB's employee diversity program, we strive to promote gender diversity in the workplace and the marketplace. We are also dedicated to contributing to a more inclusive future for sports in the Kingdom by supporting initiatives that expand opportunities for training, mentoring, and developing female talent, ultimately transforming it into professional capabilities.' Elisabet Spina, AC Milan head of women football, said: 'At AC Milan, in collaboration with SAB and Visa, we are proud to support these young women and accompany them on their journey of growth, both on and off the pitch. We are very pleased to welcome Fatima Alsenan to the PUMA House of Football, where she will begin a high-level growth journey within a club whose prestige is globally recognized, and in close contact with top-tier professionals.'
Zawya
02-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Visa, SAB and AC Milan Women announce the winner of She's Next in Football program in Saudi Arabia
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: Visa (NYSE: V), a global leader in digital payments, today announced the winners of the inaugural She's Next in Football program in Saudi Arabia, held in partnership with Saudi Awwal Bank (SAB) and AC Milan Women. The initiative spotlights the Kingdom's most promising women footballers and marks a major step in advancing female talent in sports through mentorship, professional training, and international exposure. Fatima Alsenan was named the overall winner and will travel to Milan for a two-week 'Training with the PRO' experience at the PUMA House of Football, training alongside AC Milan Women's professional players and coaches. Zainab Alhomidi secured the runner-up position and will enjoy an exclusive VIP visit to AC Milan's training grounds. Both athletes were chosen from a highly competitive pool following a week-long training camp in Riyadh. Finalists were evaluated based on their football skills, leadership potential, and dedication to the game. The judging panel included representatives from Visa, SAB, and Saudi football icon Farah Jefry, who also serves as the program ambassador. 'Programs like She's Next in Football show us what's possible when ambition, talent, and opportunity come together. What sets these young women apart isn't just what they do. It's how they think with resilience, focus, and a willingness to grow. That mindset is exactly what She's Next is all about. Through partnerships with SAB and AC Milan Women, we're not just creating opportunities, building ecosystems that empower women to lead, inspire, and shape their communities. It's a model that works across sectors, and one we're proud to champion as part of Saudi Arabia's inclusive growth journey,' said Ali Bailoun, Visa's Regional General Manager for KSA, Bahrain, and Oman. Lama Ghazzaoui, Chief Financial Officer at SAB said, 'When women are given meaningful access to opportunity they rise, not only as athletes but as change makers. This partnership is about more than football, it is about creating a space for growth, confidence and ambition to take root. As the chair of BALANCE, SAB's employee diversity program, we strive to promote gender diversity in the workplace and the marketplace. We are also dedicated to contributing to a more inclusive future for sports in the Kingdom by supporting initiatives that expand opportunities for training, mentoring, and developing female talent, ultimately transforming it into professional capabilities.' Elisabet Spina, AC Milan Head of Women Football: 'At its core, She's Next in Football is a project aimed at unlocking the potential of young women, where ambition meets opportunity and talent is given the space it deserves. At AC Milan, in collaboration with SAB and Visa, we are proud to support these young women and accompany them on their journey of growth, both on and off the pitch. We are very pleased to welcome Fatima Alsenan to the PUMA House of Football, where she will begin a high-level growth journey within a Club whose prestige is globally recognized, and in close contact with top-tier professionals. This experience will allow her to immerse herself in a professional environment that fosters ambition, self-confidence, and personal development, both on and off the pitch.' Since its launch in 2023, Visa's She's Next initiative has empowered thousands of women across industries in Saudi Arabia, including fashion, gaming, and now sports. About Visa: Visa (NYSE: V) is a world leader in digital payments, facilitating transactions between consumers and businesses globally. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. We believe that economies that include everyone everywhere, uplift everyone everywhere and see access as foundational to the future of money movement. Learn more at About Visa, and @VisaCEMEA. About SAB: Saudi Awwal Bank (SAB) is one of the largest banks in the Kingdom, with a history in Saudi Arabia spanning over 90 years. Over the past nine decades, it has been an active partner in supporting the Kingdom's economic growth and social development. SAB is a leading corporate and institutional international bank in the Kingdom with a top Wealth & Personal Banking proposition. SAB is also a leader in in trade finance, foreign exchange, debt wholesale banking, digital service innovation, and ESG, in Saudi Arabia and the broader region. SAB offers integrated financial and banking services, including corporate banking, investment, private banking, and treasury. The bank's paid-up capital is SAR 20.5 billion, following its legal merger with Alawwal Bank on 14th March 2021, when it was formerly known as the Saudi British Bank (SABB). SAB operates under the supervision and regulation of the Saudi Central Bank and is a partner of the HSBC Group.
Arab News
20-04-2025
- Business
- Arab News
New Visa program empowers Saudi female footballers
Visa, a global leader in digital payments, has announced the launch of its 'She's Next in Football' program in Saudi Arabia. Building on the success of the She's Next programs in fashion and gaming in the Kingdom, this initiative is designed to empower and support women footballers in the Kingdom through mentorship, training, and exclusive opportunities with world-class football experts. In partnership with Saudi Awwal Bank and AC Milan Women, this program provides female athletes with a platform to develop their skills, gain mentorship, and experience world-class football training. Women football players in Saudi Arabia are invited to apply for She's Next in Football by completing and submitting the form available on Visa's website, until May 5. The finalists will be announced on May 21, and will participate in a training camp in Riyadh, where they will receive expert training and a certificate signed by Elisabet Spina, head of women's football, AC Milan, and Suzanne Bakker, women's coach, AC Milan. They will also have the unique opportunity to train with Farah Jefry, a distinguished Saudi footballer and midfielder for Al-Ittihad Women's Football Club in Jeddah, who serves as the program's brand ambassador. In addition, the winner of the program will travel to Milan and enjoy a 'Training with the PRO' two-week experience at the Puma House of Football, home to the women's team's training center, where they will train with professional athletes and coaches. The runner-up will receive a VIP visit to AC Milan's training facilities, gaining behind-the-scenes access to one of football's most renowned development programs. Ali Bailoun, Visa's regional general manager for Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Oman, said: 'Women are driving change across industries, sports, and business, shaping the future through their contributions. As women's football continues to grow, new pathways are opening for female athletes to access professional training, resources, and career development. As one of the world's most active sponsors of women's football, Visa is committed to strengthening the sport's ecosystem at every level. By partnering with AC Milan Women and SAB, we are contributing to the long-term development of women's football in the Kingdom. Investing in women's sports is an investment in inclusion and economic empowerment, ensuring female athletes receive the recognition and opportunities they deserve.' Rania Alsharyoufi, chief human resources officer, SAB, said: 'At SAB, we believe in the power of sports as a driver for empowerment, inclusion, and long-term growth. Our partnership with Visa and AC Milan Women in the She's Next Football program reflects our commitment to fostering opportunities for women in Saudi Arabia, helping them reach their full potential on and off the field. By supporting initiatives that promote skills, mentorship, and visibility, we are proud to contribute to a more inclusive and dynamic future for women's football in the Kingdom.' Spina, AC Milan's head of women's football, added: 'At AC Milan, we are deeply committed to fostering the growth of women's football worldwide, and we are proud to be part of the She's Next in Football initiative. As a club with a rich history in developing and promoting the women's game, we believe in the power of football to inspire and empower. 'This program represents a unique opportunity to support the next generation of female footballers in Saudi Arabia, providing them with world-class training, mentorship, and a pathway to grow in the sport.' Jefry said: 'I'm genuinely energized by this initiative and the remarkable opportunity it presents to ignite the passion of aspiring football players, empowering them to reach new heights in their athletic journey.'
Zawya
16-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Visa partners with SAB and AC Milan Women to launch She's Next in Football in Saudi Arabia
Visa seeks to build on long-term commitments to women's football and continue bringing greater visibility and equality to the sport. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: Visa (NYSE: V), a global leader in digital payments, announced the launch of She's Next in Football program in Saudi Arabia. Building on the success of She's Next programs in fashion and gaming in KSA, this initiative is designed to empower and support women footballers in the Kingdom through mentorship, training, and exclusive opportunities with world-class football experts. In partnership with Saudi Awwal Bank (SAB) and AC Milan Women, this initiative provides female athletes with a platform to develop their skills, gain mentorship, and experience world-class football training. From April 7, 2025, until May 5, 2025, women football players in Saudi Arabia are invited to apply for She's Next in Football by completing and submitting the form available on Visa website. The finalists will be announced on May 21, 2025, and will participate in a training camp in Riyadh, where they will receive expert training and a certificate signed by Elisabet Spina, AC Milan Head of Women Football, and the Suzanne Bakker, AC Milan Women's Coach. They will also have the unique opportunity to train with and meet Farah Jefry, a distinguished Saudi Arabian footballer and midfielder for Al-Ittihad Women's Football Club in Jeddah, who serves as the program's brand ambassador. In addition, the winner of the program will travel to Milan and enjoy a 'Training with the PRO" two-week experience at the PUMA House of Football, home to the Women's Team's training centre, where they will train with professional athletes and coaches. The runner-up will receive a VIP visit to AC Milan's training facilities, gaining behind-the-scenes access to one of football's most renowned development programs. Ali Bailoun, Visa's Regional General Manager for KSA, Bahrain, and Oman, commented: 'Women are driving change across industries, sports, and business, shaping the future through their contributions. As women's football continues to grow, new pathways are opening for female athletes to access professional training, resources, and career development. As one of the world's most active sponsors of women's football, Visa is committed to strengthening the sport's ecosystem at every level. By partnering with AC Milan Women and SAB Bank, we are contributing to the long-term development of women's football in the Kingdom. Investing in women's sports is an investment in inclusion and economic empowerment, ensuring female' athletes receive the recognition and opportunities they deserve.' Rania Alsharyoufi, Chief Human Resources Officer stated: 'At Saudi Awwal Bank, we believe in the power of sports as a driver for empowerment, inclusion, and long-term growth. Our partnership with Visa and AC Milan Women in the She's Next Football program reflects our commitment to fostering opportunities for women in Saudi Arabia, helping them reach their full potential on and off the field. By supporting initiatives that promote skills, mentorship, and visibility, we are proud to contribute to a more inclusive and dynamic future for women's football in the Kingdom.' Elisabet Spina, AC Milan Head of Women Football, added: 'At AC Milan, we are deeply committed to fostering the growth of women's football worldwide, and we are proud to be part of the She's Next in Football initiative. As a Club with a rich history in developing and promoting the women's game, we believe in the power of football to inspire and empower. This program represents a unique opportunity to support the next generation of female footballers in Saudi Arabia, providing them with world-class training, mentorship, and a pathway to grow in the sport. We look forward to sharing our expertise, supporting their journey, and helping shape the future of women's football globally.' Farah Jefry, also remarked: "I'm genuinely energized by this initiative and the remarkable opportunity it presents to ignite the passion of aspiring football players, empowering them to reach new heights in their athletic journey." To learn more and apply for the She's Next in Football program, applicants must submit a short application form with details on the dedicated website. About Visa Visa (NYSE: V) is a world leader in digital payments, facilitating transactions between consumers and businesses globally. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. We believe that economies that include everyone everywhere, uplift everyone everywhere and see access as foundational to the future of money movement. Learn more at About Visa, and @VisaCEMEA. About SAB Saudi Awwal Bank is one of the largest banks in the Kingdom and traces its origins in Saudi Arabia to more than 90 years, during which time it has been an active partner supporting the Kingdom's economic growth and social development. SAB is one of the leading corporate and institutional international banks in the Kingdom with a top Wealth & Personal Banking proposition. SAB is also a leader in Saudi Arabia and the region in trade finance, foreign exchange, debt wholesale banking, digital service innovation, and ESG, paving the way for transformation and excellence. SAB offers integrated financial and banking services, including corporate banking, investment, private banking, and treasury. SAB paid-up capital is SAR 20.5 billion, after the legal merger with Alawwal Bank on 14th March 2021, when it was legally known as the Saudi British Bank (SABB). Saudi Awwal Bank is a licensed financial institution operating under the supervision of and regulated by the Saudi Central Bank, and a partner of the HSBC Group.
Al Bawaba
16-04-2025
- Business
- Al Bawaba
Visa Partners with SAB and AC Milan Women to Launch She's Next in Football in Saudi Arabia
Visa (NYSE: V), a global leader in digital payments, announced the launch of She's Next in Football program in Saudi Arabia. Building on the success of She's Next programs in fashion and gaming in KSA, this initiative is designed to empower and support women footballers in the Kingdom through mentorship, training, and exclusive opportunities with world-class football experts. In partnership with Saudi Awwal Bank (SAB) and AC Milan Women, this initiative provides female athletes with a platform to develop their skills, gain mentorship, and experience world-class football April 7, 2025, until May 5, 2025, women football players in Saudi Arabia are invited to apply for She's Next in Football by completing and submitting the form available on Visa finalists will be announced on May 21, 2025, and will participate in a training camp in Riyadh, where they will receive expert training and a certificate signed by Elisabet Spina, AC Milan Head of Women Football, and the Suzanne Bakker, AC Milan Women's Coach. They will also have the unique opportunity to train with and meet Farah Jefry, a distinguished Saudi Arabian footballer and midfielder for Al-Ittihad Women's Football Club in Jeddah, who serves as the program's brand addition, the winner of the program will travel to Milan and enjoy a 'Training with the PRO" two-week experience at the PUMA House of Football, home to the Women's Team's training centre, where they will train with professional athletes and coaches. The runner-up will receive a VIP visit to AC Milan's training facilities, gaining behind-the-scenes access to one of football's most renowned development Bailoun, Visa's Regional General Manager for KSA, Bahrain, and Oman, commented: 'Women are driving change across industries, sports, and business, shaping the future through their contributions. As women's football continues to grow, new pathways are opening for female athletes to access professional training, resources, and career development. As one of the world's most active sponsors of women's football, Visa is committed to strengthening the sport's ecosystem at every level. By partnering with AC Milan Women and SAB Bank, we are contributing to the long-term development of women's football in the Kingdom. Investing in women's sports is an investment in inclusion and economic empowerment, ensuring female' athletes receive the recognition and opportunities they deserve.'Rania Alsharyoufi, Chief Human Resources Officer stated: 'At Saudi Awwal Bank, we believe in the power of sports as a driver for empowerment, inclusion, and long-term growth. Our partnership with Visa and AC Milan Women in the She's Next Football program reflects our commitment to fostering opportunities for women in Saudi Arabia, helping them reach their full potential on and off the field. By supporting initiatives that promote skills, mentorship, and visibility, we are proud to contribute to a more inclusive and dynamic future for women's football in the Kingdom.' Elisabet Spina, AC Milan Head of Women Football, added: 'At AC Milan, we are deeply committed to fostering the growth of women's football worldwide, and we are proud to be part of the She's Next in Football initiative. As a Club with a rich history in developing and promoting the women's game, we believe in the power of football to inspire and empower. This program represents a unique opportunity to support the next generation of female footballers in Saudi Arabia, providing them with world-class training, mentorship, and a pathway to grow in the sport. We look forward to sharing our expertise, supporting their journey, and helping shape the future of women's football globally.'Farah Jefry, also remarked: "I'm genuinely energized by this initiative and the remarkable opportunity it presents to ignite the passion of aspiring football players, empowering them to reach new heights in their athletic journey." To learn more and apply for the She's Next in Football program, applicants must submit a short application form with details on the dedicated website.
